Our Story

Our History

Ngakouka Herefords was established in 2000 when Bruce and Chrissina Donald entered a breeding initiative in an equity partnership with Cascade Herefords, Australia. The objective of this relationship was to export NZ genetics to Cascade. The property, Ngakouka, in the Ponatahi Valley, Wairarapa, is the namesake of the stud which is now based at Mironui Station, Dannevirke. Bruce is from a strong breeding background across a number of animal breeds and had always had an interest in Herefords which runs strongly throughout his extended family. 

Our Property

Bruce and Chrissina run 150 breeding cows plus replacements in their own right on Mironui, their 567 ha hill country property 18 kms east of Dannevirke. Their farming philosophy is based on true traditional practices of sustainability by nurturing excellent soil health based on biological principles. They believe the health of what is above the soil is dependent on the health of the soil and its microbiology and strive to look after it in their farming practices. 

Our Herefords

Ngakouka Herefords are born and raised as genuine, quiet hill country cattle in commercial conditions with sheep. The environment at Mironui is like many east coast properties with its steep hills. On these inclines Bruce and Chrissina breed durable, grass fed bulls that will continue to reach their potential – these ‘street wise’ cattle are fit for the hills!

Their breeding philosophy aims to produce sound, well-structured animals with longevity, high carcass yields and high fertility. Bruce prides himself on the temperament of his cattle and the ‘good-doing’ nature they display. Cutting edge technology with the use of DNA snip testing (SNP) provides EBVs from birth which enhances decision making earlier and allows Bruce and Chrissina to test for endless heritable traits. 

Our Family

Bruce and Chrissina have three daughters. All three girls have been actively involved in farm life and have a growing understanding of the agricultural sector. Molly is in her last year of a four year Ag Science degree at Lincoln University. Hannah is in her second year of an Agri Business degree, also at Lincoln. Georgina is in Year 12 and, like the other two, has taken Agriculture as part of her course of study this year and at this stage is making noises about also attending Lincoln for her tertiary study. We are looking forward to seeing what future direction they take in the industry.